Struijk could be days away from Leeds United exit amid latest transfer development
Leeds United have been linked with an eight-figure move for RC Lens centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov which could suggest Pascal Struijk’s exit is getting closer.
January always poses the toughest challenge of the season with a hectic playing schedule matched with the relentless transfer window in which Leeds have reportedly made a £16.5million bid for Khusanov (TOPMercato, 27 December).
If the deal materialises, it would become the biggest fee ever paid by a Championship club but could also spell bad news for the Whites in a different sense.
Tottenham were reported to have interest in signing Struijk in January by Graeme Bailey via Leeds United News (17 December) and Leeds’ links to Khusanov could suggest that a deal is much closer than believed.
Regardless of who comes in, Struijk’s departure would leave a huge hole in the Whites’ defence.
January could pose a threat to Leeds United
While the transfer window will provide an excellent opportunity for the Whites to strengthen their side, it also presents the opportunity for other clubs to swoop for some of the best performers at Elland Road this season.
For Leeds, Struijk has been one of those and his potential departure is definitely something worthy of concern given the latest news.
It was previously deemed “highly unlikely” for Leeds to sanction his sale but given the deficiencies in their squad, it seems the only logical explanation as to why they would be forking out a league-record sum for a centre-back, which is arguably one of their strongest positions.
However, the links are also cause for optimism as it showcases that Leeds are willing to spend in January and show some ambition in a bid to strengthen their promotion hopes.
As it stands, the Whites will be heading into the new year while sitting at the summit of the division after a successful campaign so far.
In other Leeds United news, the Whites must be on high alert after the latest transfer development.
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